What is SUDS?
SUDS is Canada's premier student union conference, lasting 3 days with optional residence and catering included, hosted annually by the student union at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. Since its founding, SUDS has built a reputation as one of the most impactful and energizing gatherings of student leaders in the country, a space where ideas meet action, and where student executives return to their campuses recharged, better connected, and equipped with practical skills they can put to work immediately.
Past delegates have described it as "truly a unique opportunity to share and learn from each other's experience" and "a chance to go into the academic year with a new perspective and a spirit to do more in our communities." Student unions from institutions including the University of Manitoba, University of the Fraser Valley, and many others have sent delegations year after year - a testament to the lasting value SUDS consistently delivers.
The Alma Mater Society (AMS) plays a key role in improving and enhancing the learning experience for students at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver. By coordinating with other student unions in Canada and beyond, we share our experiences, challenges, and successes to create a more comprehensive and effective governance structure that better serves and represents our students.
SUDS focuses on bringing student executives from across the country together, offering workshops on topics relevant to student societies. Recently, our emphasis has been on lobbying, providing workshops on how to lobby effectively. This combination of workshops and networking ensures that student union executives gain practical skills and build strong connections with their peers.
Join us at SUDS to learn, share, and grow in a supportive and dynamic environment. Together, we can elevate student governance and create a lasting impact across our campuses.
Why Attend SUDS?
Our goal is to provide every attendee with the knowledge and skills needed for running a successful student union while facilitating discussions of current issues facing students and their representatives. We have already received an overwhelming response from passionate attendees who have registered for SUDS, and we cannot wait to see the excitement and enthusiasm that you, as a school leader, will bring to this vibrant gathering!
By attending SUDS, you can look forward to the following:
Inspirational
Workshops
Our carefully curated workshops cover a wide range of topics, from leadership development to event planning and community engagement. Gain invaluable skills and knowledge to enhance your impact on campus.
Networking
Opportunities
Connect with student leaders from diverse backgrounds, exchange ideas, and form collaborations that can make a positive difference in your institution and beyond.
Empowering
Presentations
Acquire insights from renowned speakers who have significantly impacted their fields. Their experiences will inspire you to take on new challenges and confidently lead.
Collaborative
Discussions
Engage in meaningful discussions about the current issues and challenges facing students and their representatives. Share your experiences and learn from others to develop effective strategies and solutions.
Personal
Growth
Develop tangible personal skills that translate to student government and the professional world. Through interactive sessions and hands-on activities, enhance your leadership abilities, communication skills, and problem-solving capabilities.
Join us at SUDS to share, learn, and grow in a supportive and dynamic environment. Together, we can elevate student governance and create a lasting impact across our campuses.